February is for the Heart: Awareness, love, and Self-Care

**TogetherMed is not offering any medical advice

February is best known as the month of love, where millions around the world celebrate Valentine's Day by buying chocolates and making cards for family and friends. What most people don't know is that February is also Heart Disease Awareness Month, where millions around the world who have heart disease are celebrated and empowered. 

For teens specifically, managing chronic illnesses, specifically heart health, can be hard, but this month, we celebrate and raise awareness for those who need it. 

Why Heart Health Matters 

Heart disease is often thought of as something that only affects adults, or older people, but the truth is that there are many different reasons your heart health can be influenced, even when you are a teen. For teens with chronic illness, awareness can mean noticing your accomplishments, growth, and the way you overcome obstacles every day. 

Valentine's Day is often about showing love to others. Although it's also a perfect time to celebrate yourself. When struggling with chronic illness, uplifting yourself is a positive way to make yourself feel better

• Celebrate victories - celebrate all victories, small and big 

• Connect with others - friends and family 

• Express yourself creatively - done through writing, drawing, and more 

Empowerment through Awareness 

Living with chronic illness can feel isolating - but recognizing your own journey is always empowering. Heart disease awareness month and values day together remind us that love, connection, and self -recognition are important. 

This February, when you are exchanging cards and chocolate, or celebrating yourself, don't forget to also celebrate your heart, your experiences, resilience, and strength that YOU carry every day! 

TogetherMed